Telecom New Zealand is making MSN Messenger connections free on their wireless LAN (Wi-Fi) hotspots. You don't need an account with Telecom or Xtra (their ISP) to use the wireless service, which is available in some airports, hotels and Starbucks across New Zealand.

While they still limit the full use of other wireless services to current Telecom account holders (which defeats the purpose for overseas visitors and people who do not use Telecom's services), it seems that there's some work in the background to enable roaming with some large wireless LAN provider, plus some other cool features.

In the meantime, we just need a Wi-Fi enabled PDA or laptop/tablet PC to enjoy free MSN Messenger connections while waiting for the flight or latte.

This is great news - I can imagine more and more people using the hotspots around the country. This should drive some new users to the full service too. Very good move.